Tamar Duran’s journey to join the Zions Bank Banker Development Program began over a decade ago when she immigrated to the United States from El Salvador. A first-generation college student, Tamar worked full-time in private banking while attending Salt Lake Community College and the University of Utah. She completed her degree in finance at the David Eccles School of Business in late 2023 and joined the Banker Development Program in June 2024.
Take 5 with Zions Talent: Tamar Duran
Credit analyst Tamar Duran shares her career journey, how Zions Bank and the Banker Development Program have propelled her career forward, and the advice she would give to early career professionals.
Tamar Duran, far right, with the June 2024 Banker Development Program cohort.
Tamar has a talent for connecting with people and making a lasting impression. When I first met Tamar in the spring of 2024, I instantly noticed her warm personality and obvious drive to succeed. Each year, I meet hundreds of college students and recent college graduates in my role as Zions Bank’s college recruiter. Tamar stood out. I could tell that she is interested in building authentic relationships and growing. As her recruiter, I will never forget her excitement when I called to offer her a role as a credit analyst in the Banker Development Program. Zions Bank was her top choice as she was considering next steps in her career.
Tamar is deeply driven by finding meaning and purpose in her work and personal life. To give back to her community, Tamar volunteers with local animal shelters. She also enjoys discovering new foods, especially a recent obsession: Thai drunken noodles (hold the spice!) In her spare time, she also loves traveling to new destinations to learn more about the world.
We chatted to learn more about her background and why she is proud to call herself a Zions Banker.
What drew you to banking and the Banker Development Program?
While studying at the University of Utah, I discovered that banking offers so many opportunities and pathways for growth. Banks are a fundamental part of our society! I started in private banking at Wells Fargo as a licensed client service specialist where I obtained my Series 7 and Series 63 licenses. I was proud of this achievement. I studied hard, and I passed the tests on my first try!
After working in private banking, I always wanted to get into credit, but I didn’t know where to start. When I saw this entry-level position with an extensive credit training program and rotations, I knew I wanted to learn more. I met other people who had been in the Banker Development Program, and I was impressed with their feedback about the program. The program felt like a great stepping stone in my career. I have loved the balance of getting a chance to interact with clients and use my analytical skills in my role as a credit analyst.
What motivates and inspires you?
During a trip to Italy and Greece in 2023, Tamar and her husband, Camron, enjoyed a visit to the Parthenon.
The sacrifice that my parents made bringing all of us to the United States in 2012 motivates and inspires me. They have told me many times about how they did what they did for their kids. Because of their sacrifice, I work hard to be better and make a good life for myself.
What do you love about working at Zions Bank?
I love the work/life balance here at the bank. People here want to know about my personal life and get to know me. Zions Bank also invests in its employees. I saw this firsthand with credit foundations, our credit and underwriting training program. I learned so much in the program that prepared me for my rotations. My mentor in the program, a former credit analyst in the Banker Development Program, has also been so willing to answer questions and support me. I find my work meaningful, and I’m proud to tell people that I work as a credit analyst at Zions Bank.
What advice would you give to those early in their career?
If I could go back, I would remind myself when I kept procrastinating things that the sooner you start something, the better. Don’t be scared to try something new!
Looking to transform your career in 2025? Learn more about job opportunities with Zions Bank and Zions Bancorporation on the Zions Bank Careers website.
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